The National is fast approaching. I had intended to ride this year, but a combination of various things, primarily a lack of fitness and the common cold, put paid to those ambitions. Instead I’ll be watching and selling books.

Since the book came out back in June it’s been quite an exciting time. I was thrilled to be asked to write the forward for the championship programme and I’ve had a few invitations to various ends of season festivities. It’s all quite unexpected but certainly not unwelcome.

I have a small cowbell. My mum has sourced a Swiss cow bell which is frighteningly loud. I am looking forward to seeing a battle royale between the various monster stick-men.